1998 Holden Nova vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 1998 Holden Nova is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Holden Nova (105 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volvo 242 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1998 Holden Nova.
Because 1986 Volvo 242 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1986 Volvo 242. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Volvo 242 (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1986 Volvo 242 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Holden Nova | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Holden | Volvo |
| Model | Nova | 242 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2660 mm |
